Question:

What do the scholars and experts of shariah regarding a couple who fornicated? Is marrying each other the only way to be forgiven and remove such a sin?

Answer:

In life there are times when one falls short of the parameters set out in the shari’ah. For this reason, we constantly seek forgiveness from Allah ﷻ for the sins we commit, knowingly or unknowingly. The mercy and benevolence of our Creator ﷻ is such that one does not need to live in the shadow of their sins. By seeking sincere forgiveness, not only is the sin removed but one draws closer and becomes beloved to Allah ﷻ. It is stated in the Holy Qur’an, “Allah loves those who repent, and loves those who maintain cleanliness.” (Surah al-Baqarah: v.222)

The shari’ah has counted fornication to be amongst the major sins. There is no such condition that a person will only be forgiven if they marry that individual, they had a haram relationship with.  With true repentance a person can free themselves from such a burden of sin. Tawba is to turn to Allah ﷻ in repentance. It is to leave the sin, be regretful about what has passed, and have a firm resolve to not return to the sin ever again.

If both individuals having performed tawba find each other suitable for marriage, then this is better for them.

And Allah ﷻ knows best

This fatwa is written by Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Munir Al-Azhari